Chiropractic works by helping restore your body's inherent ability to be healthy and move better. When under the proper control of your nervous system, all the cells, tissues, and organs of your body are designed to resist disease and ill health. The chiropractic approach to better health is to locate and remove interferences (fixated or stuck vertebrae) to your nervous system. With improved spinal function, there is improved nervous system function, muscle tone is decreased, mobility is increased, blood flow is increased and so much more. The goal of the chiropractor is to remove interference that may be impairing normal health through specific chiropractic adjustments, helping your body function better. A healthy spine and a healthy lifestyle are integral ways of achieving optimal health and wellness. Chiropractic helps you feel better, move better and function better.

What is a chiropractic adjustment?

A chiropractic adjustment is the art of using a specific force in a precise direction, applied to a joint that is "locked up," or not moving properly. The purpose of this safe and natural procedure is to eliminate interference to the nervous and musculoskeletal system, improving spinal function, mobility and overall health. An adjustment is a specifically directed force, normally performed by hand. Its purpose is to 'unlock' the affected vertebral/extremity joints, restoring normal movement and function. There are a variety of different methods used in Chiropractic to analyze and adjust the spine and extremities. Dr. Armen will choose the most effective technique for that individual patient while taking into consideration the physical build of the patient, age or any other health matters. Every treatment is as unique as the individual. A proper treatment for a 30 year old MMA fighter is not necessarily appropriate for a 70 year-old grandmother. We do not offer "cookie-cutter" Chiropractic at our office. We are not ruled by management companies. We do what we think is right for the patient, based on our training, experience, intuition and the conversation between doctor and patient.

How is a Chiropractic adjustment performed?

First, the patient is positioned in a way that isolates the involved joint or joints from the others. Then the doctor used his hands to apply a gentle thrust of the joint. This moves the joint surfaces and commonly, but not always, results in a popping sound.

What is the noise heard with a Chiropractic adjustment?

During manipulation, joint surfaces are separated. As this happens, movement of fluid and a release of gas occur within the joint. The "cracking" noise frequently heard during manipulation is similar to gas being released from a carbonated beverage. This noise is merely an incidental event that occurs during an adjustment, it is NOT what makes the treatment effective. Restoration of joint mobility and alignment is the goal of an adjustment, not the noise.

Why is thrust necessary?

Imagine a door that only opens half way because of a stuck hinge. It still can be used, but it is more troublesome than a door that fully opens. The joints in your spine and throughout your body can be thought of in the same way. When a proper thrust is applied to a "stuck" joint, its full motion is restored, associated muscle tension is decreased, and consequently function is restored.

Are Chiropractic Adjustments safe?

When performed by an expert, manipulation is safe and effective. Dr. Armen is well trained, experienced and licensed to perform manipulation. He is able to recognize who should and who should not receive adjustments.

Are all patients adjusted the same way?

No. Dr. Armen evaluates each patient's unique spinal problem and develops an individual course of care. Each chiropractic adjustment builds on the one before. The resulting recommendations are based upon his years of training and experience. Each patient's care is unique and individualized.

Does chiropractic work for all types of health problems?

No, however chiropractic care can be successful with a variety of health problems not necessarily considered "back" problems because of its positive effect on the nervous system, the fascial system and possibly related organ function. When the nervous system functions optimally, so may other systems of the body.

What causes Joint Dysfunction /Joint Fixation(s)?

The stresses and strains of everyday living such as housework, gardening, desk work, lifting, or even sleeping on the couch, can cause spinal problems. So can falls, accidents (especially car accidents), sports activities and injuries and even emotional stress. In children, joint dysfunction(s) can initially occur during the birth process, development, in play and from everyday childhood activities.

Can I tell if I have a joint that is fixated or not functioning properly?

Not always. Joint dysfunction is like a dental cavity--you may have it for a long time before symptoms appear. That's why periodic spinal checkups and as Dr. Armen calls them, "symmetry scans," are so important. Our bodies are dynamic and change on a regular basis, sometimes in a dysfunctional way. Regular checkups are always a good idea in order to prevent small problems from potentially becoming big ones.

What are some warning signs of Joint Dysfunction?

Symptoms such as headaches, back pain, neck stiffness, pain in your shoulders, arms or legs, numbness in your hands or feet, fatigue, or nervousness are the most common signs of joint dysfunction. But, like a tooth cavity, most people will have a dysfunctional joint long before they notice any symptoms.

Can I adjust myself?

No. Please no. When Dr. Armen makes an adjustment, it increases motion in a "locked" or "stuck" joint. When most people "crack" their own back or neck, they affect joints that are already gliding or moving properly or even too much, not the joints that are "stuck". Since a chiropractic adjustment is a specific force, applied in a specific direction to a specific joint, it is virtually impossible to adjust oneself correctly and accurately. It is possible to turn or bend or twist in certain ways to create a "popping" sound that sometimes accompanies a chiropractic adjustment. Unfortunately, this type of joint manipulation is usually counterproductive, often making an already unstable spine even more unstable, and can sometimes be dangerous. Please do not try this at home.

Is chiropractic care addictive?

No. However, It is possible to get used to feeling more balanced, less stressed, and more energetic as a result of regular chiropractic care. Chiropractic is not addictive, however, good health is.

Are adjustments painful?

In most cases adjustments produce no discomfort. Many times the patient will actually feel better right away, experiencing decreased pain and increased motion. Occasionally, you may feel mild discomfort, which is due to the body adapting itself to its new neurological and biomechanical state.

What type of education do chiropractic doctors receive?

Chiropractic education and medical education are similar in many respects as they are both considered "Portal of Entry" providers (meaning you can see a Doctor of Chiropractic or Medical Doctor without a referral). They are different in that chiropractors do not prescribe drugs or perform surgery, and medical doctors do not correct dysfunctional joints. A chiropractic degree is earned by completing a four year, 4800-hour program consisting of diagnosis, anatomy, physiology, neurology, psychology, geriatrics, pediatrics, chiropractic technique, radiology, biochemistry, nutrition, biomechanics, rehabilitation, physical therapy, physical examination, and a clinical internship. Upon graduation a chiropractor earns the degree of Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.). Each candidate must then pass the demanding four part National Board Examinations. Then, doctors apply to a governmental or professional licensing board and pass a still more difficult test before being granted the privilege to practice. A chiropractor's education, however, never ends. Chiropractic doctors must complete regular postgraduate instruction for license renewal and to stay current on the latest research and adjustment techniques.

Why are continued checkups necessary for chiropractic?

Chiropractic is an advocate for preventative health care. It is much more effective and less expensive to identify and correct joint or movement dysfunctions before they become a major problem. Similar to plaque building up along your gums, "spinal plaque" is sometimes not noticeable until you have a problem. "Prevention is better than cure" and cheaper too!

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